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Gambling on lotteries has long been viewed differently to other forms of gambling. But as the lines between the different types of operators, games and verticals become increasingly blurred, is it time for a rethink? Joanne Christie reports

Victor Espinosa believes that his company’s self-service terminal, originally conceived as a lottery ticket vending machine, could become a widely used solution in markets with a low level of internet penetration. Here he explains how Loto Punto was established, and the obstacles it faces in its native Colombian market.

The State of the Union, in partnership with Segev LLP, covers the latest regulatory developments across the US. This week pressure has been ramped up on the Department of Justice in the wake of its revised Wire Act opinion, South Dakota and Minnesota are considering sports betting bills and Arkansas is thrashing out sports betting regulations, while Illinois' new Democrat Governor has factored sports betting into his 2020 budget.

The first day’s panels at ICE VOX 2019 saw speakers talk up the need for cooperation between operators and regulators if the industry is to survive in the face of increasing regulatory pressure and worsening public opinion. Speakers also highlighted the importance of clarity on issues such as the Department of Justice’s reinterpretation of the Wire Act and what is expected of operators when it comes to player protection.

In the second part of iGaming Business' deep dive into the revised Wire Act opinion, ICE Sports Betting USA speakers stress the need for clarity from the Department of Justice as they look to work out the best way to interpret the ruling.

The Department of Justice’s decision to revise its interpretation of the Wire Act could have a major impact on the nascent US iGaming industry. Or, as some suggest, its impact could be felt in gaming verticals that are well-established and generating money for operators and states alike. A selection of speakers from ICE Sports Betting USA discuss the DoJ’s about-turn.

In late February Portuguese media reported that despite opposition from within the government, the country may regulate online gaming as a way to raise revenues and alleviate some of the financial pressures the government is faced with as it tries to deal with its debt crisis. But even if igaming regulation does happen, Portugal is more likely to implement monopoly-type legislation than provide a good working environment for operators.